Heating system problem leaving me stumped

FORD MUSTANG
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BOONDAILY
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  • 2 POSTS
I have an 86 ford mustang 120,000 miles V8 with a heating problem that has stumped me for a long time. The car was originally a V4 but the person I bought it from converted it to a V8. I recently replaced the thermostat in my car with 195 degree thermostat after the serpentine broke, but I've never had good heat. I've checked all the lines and they're all hot to the touch. I have no air in the lines and they're all in great shape. It's full of anti-freeze; also I don't smell any anti-freeze while driving and the floor isn’t wet. I suspect either the heater core is old and tired or could it be the after-market Howe radiator that is the problem? Thanks for your time.
Sep 24, 2007 at 5:16 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Why don't you try bleeding the cooling system could be air lock in there see below.

Always bleed air from cooling system after replacing coolant. Set heater for maximum heat. Remove radiator cap. Loosen drain plug and remove drain bolt (if equipped) from engine block. Drain coolant reservoir. Fill coolant reservoir to MAX mark with 50/50 water-coolant mixture. Loosen bleed bolt and fill radiator up to base of filler neck. Close bleed bolt when coolant flows out without bubbles. Tighten bleed bolt. With radiator cap removed, start and operate engine to normal operating temperature. Add coolant if necessary and check for leaks.
Sep 24, 2007 at 10:12 PM
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BOONDAILY
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Hey thanks for the reply. I tried your suggestions, but in the end it was the heater core that failed. I guess I got lucky or unlucky with no leaks.
Sep 25, 2007 at 11:20 PM
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